Managing Multiple Playlists on the iPhone

IOS 7 for the iPhone does not have a native feature for batch playlist management. This means that you can only select and play or edit one playlist at a time. This can be frustrating for users with

IOS 7 for the iPhone does not have a native feature for batch playlist management. This means that you can only select and play or edit one playlist at a time. This can be frustrating for users with large music libraries. However, you can make batch playlist changes to your iPhone by connecting it to iTunes on your computer, signing up for Apple's iTunes Match service or using third-party software. If you're trying to wrangle multiple playlists at once, then try out these techniques to get your music collection under control.

Automatic ITunes Syncing

Plug your device into your computer with the USB cable. Launch iTunes, click on "iPhone," and select the "Music" tab. Check the "Sync Music" option and choose "Selected playlists, artists, albums and genres." Next, scroll through the playlist options and select multiple playlists to sync with your iPhone. Click "Apply" and wait for the progress bar to show that syncing is complete. Click "Done," press the iPhone "Eject" icon and disconnect your device. This is the most straightforward way to organize your digital music collection on an iPhone.

Manually Manage Music

This feature gives you the most precise control over the playlists and single tracks that are synced to your iPhone. Make sure that your iPhone is connected to your computer, launch iTunes and click "iPhone. Select the "Summary" tab. Scroll down to the "Options" section and check "Manually manage music and videos." Click on "Done." Next, visit the "Playlists" tab and highlight the playlists you wish to sync to load onto your iPhone. Drag and drop these selections onto the "iPhone" button.

ITunes Match

IPhone users can subscribe to iTunes Match, Apple's music storage and syncing service, for an annual cost of $24.99. Playlists are uploaded and managed through a cloud service, so multiple playlists can be created and synced across iPhones, computers and other Apple devices automatically. ITunes Match syncing is completed over Wi-Fi or cellular networks. The cloud service is great if you don't want to lug around your computer to sync your iPhone while you're on the go. This is an ideal solution for music fans that require greater mobility or those who travel constantly.

Third-Party Apps

Third-party playlist apps can give you significantly more music management control than iTunes. . The free Spotify app comes with an updated "Browse" feature, which lets you select multiple playlists created by yourself and other users across specific musical genres. The Spotify iPhone app also syncs all the playlists stored on your desktop app and other mobile devices. The Downcast app takes a novel approach to sorting podcasts into custom or automatic playlists, for those who like a little thrill and uncertainty in life. The Adaptunes app lets you manage multiple playlists with custom volume adjustments. This feature allows you to set desired playlist volumes for home, exercise and driving scenarios.

The music management options might inspire you to start leveraging playlists more on your iPhone, if you aren't already using them. Consider making a playlist that is tailored to your work commute, and another for your gym workouts. Being able to control your music in batches will allow you to manage music with significantly greater speed and convenience.